The National Basketball Association season has entered the Playoffs. Highly paid professionals are competing. One favorite cliché you are sure to hear used to describe the eventual winner is “they are willing to leave it all on the court every night”. The winner will hold nothing back for another day and they will be playing as if there is no tomorrow, therefore, leaving it all on the court. Did you see the picture of a player weeping after his team had been eliminated? It was said that he was one of those who “left it all on the court” every game. You must finish every game in a state of exhaustion and a clear conscience that you have given your absolute best.
Actually, we Christians ought to be able to go to bed nightly with a clear conscience that the day has been lived at the highest level of dedication. Jesus lived like that. “Having loved His own, He loved them to the end.” (John 13:1 KJV)He never cut them short a single day, not even the last day. John 19:30 has His last words “It is finished!”.
Total giving! Paul learned this from Jesus “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) Paul left it all on the court. Martyrs always do. Deep-seated faith has often been rejected. But what a contrast to contemporary Christians who want to receive large benefits from faith but are willing to invest so little of themselves.
The church was not carried to her prominent place in history by people willing to give little of themselves in Christian service. Nor was it carried by cheerleaders hopping on the bandwagon of popular religion. It was carried by Christ-like “quiet fanatics” who loved the Gospel more than life itself and showed a “leaving it all on the court” commitment.
“Patient Father, surely we must hurt You when we show so little of
a spirit of total devotion to You. Give us desire! Give us courage! Amen”
Monday, April 30, 2007
Sunday, April 29, 2007
April 30: THE EFFECT OF THE NAME
Please read very carefully the following words: “And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross! Therefore, God exalted Him to the higher place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in Heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:8-11 NIV)
There is something about that name that causes me to think. It is not a rare name. It is a very commonly used name if you are of Hispanic descent. It is often heard in a cursing form. But the name itself: that’s a different matter. Most of the world and it’s inhabitants still divide History into BC and AD, all because of the impact on history of the god-man, Jesus.
Regardless of what you think of religion, the organized church, or political organizations that try to hide their actions behind a “Christian” title; all of that may “turn you off” or make you angry about religious things, but that doesn’t negate the effect of the name.
Efforts to bury Jesus in twisted art, cynical literature, or warped entertainment haven’t been able to destroy the power of His name. In several countries of the world today the people are forbidden to use the name, death comes to many daily simply because they say “Jesus is Lord”.
During the coming weeks you will see the name frequently and hear it mentioned often. When you hear it, remember what your read above. My question to you today: Where are you on the road to surrender to Jesus and agreeing that He is Lord? You may have consciously avoided answering this question. How you answer will determine how you handle today and beyond.
“Lord Jesus, some of us can’t help but call you ‘Lord’ since we met you. I pray for all who read this to come to love
Your name. Amen"
There is something about that name that causes me to think. It is not a rare name. It is a very commonly used name if you are of Hispanic descent. It is often heard in a cursing form. But the name itself: that’s a different matter. Most of the world and it’s inhabitants still divide History into BC and AD, all because of the impact on history of the god-man, Jesus.
Regardless of what you think of religion, the organized church, or political organizations that try to hide their actions behind a “Christian” title; all of that may “turn you off” or make you angry about religious things, but that doesn’t negate the effect of the name.
Efforts to bury Jesus in twisted art, cynical literature, or warped entertainment haven’t been able to destroy the power of His name. In several countries of the world today the people are forbidden to use the name, death comes to many daily simply because they say “Jesus is Lord”.
During the coming weeks you will see the name frequently and hear it mentioned often. When you hear it, remember what your read above. My question to you today: Where are you on the road to surrender to Jesus and agreeing that He is Lord? You may have consciously avoided answering this question. How you answer will determine how you handle today and beyond.
“Lord Jesus, some of us can’t help but call you ‘Lord’ since we met you. I pray for all who read this to come to love
Your name. Amen"
Saturday, April 28, 2007
April 29: CALLED AND EQUIPPED
When I look around me and see the people God is using to make a spiritual difference in the world, I am amazed. God is able to do things and have a life-changing impact in the world with the most ordinary people. Personally, when I look in the mirror, I am amazed that God could use me to write this Daily Devotional.
Don’t lose sight of 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV) “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things (and things that are not) to nullify things that are, so that no one may boast before Him.”
Some people feel worthless; they feel Jesus sees nothing worthwhile in them. Some have a strong sense of honor and see nothing they could do to repay God for such a generous act of salvation. Take heart! Jesus wants to save you and then give you the gift of serving Him with the equipment He will give you to use. You see, if we had anything that God really needed to get His work done, then we would be proud and think that we were indispensable to God and He really had to save us, whether He wanted to or not, because He couldn’t get along without us.
God forgives us, cleanses us, changes us, and equips us to do things for His Kingdom that we never dreamed we could do in our own strength.
Boasting and vanity are forever banished from a Christian community. Think about it! It is a joy to see a church family humbly working together for Jesus.
“God, what a strong affirmation it was to our own self-worth view
when
Don’t lose sight of 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NIV) “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things (and things that are not) to nullify things that are, so that no one may boast before Him.”
Some people feel worthless; they feel Jesus sees nothing worthwhile in them. Some have a strong sense of honor and see nothing they could do to repay God for such a generous act of salvation. Take heart! Jesus wants to save you and then give you the gift of serving Him with the equipment He will give you to use. You see, if we had anything that God really needed to get His work done, then we would be proud and think that we were indispensable to God and He really had to save us, whether He wanted to or not, because He couldn’t get along without us.
God forgives us, cleanses us, changes us, and equips us to do things for His Kingdom that we never dreamed we could do in our own strength.
Boasting and vanity are forever banished from a Christian community. Think about it! It is a joy to see a church family humbly working together for Jesus.
“God, what a strong affirmation it was to our own self-worth view
when
Friday, April 27, 2007
April 28: SHOWING OUR GRATITUDE
I watched as the television camera passed over the crowd crossing the parking lot into the baseball stadium. All of the faces were smiling, people were giving “high-fives”. Everyone was walking with vigor and anticipation. Later, I saw both the newspaper and the television report of a coming basketball playoff game in a nearby city. People were lining up the night before to be sure they obtained tickets for the game. All were laughing and excited. Old friends and strangers alike were warmly conversing about the coming event.
Switch now to your local Church parking lot. Unsmiling faces heading toward the building because they are late. No high-fives here! No spontaneity! The walking seems slower. Where is the excitement? There seems to be more excitement exhibited about an event whose results will be forgotten in a week than there is about an event that will have a ripple effect all the way into Eternity.
Something has been lost. Where is the fire for God? Joshua feared this would happen to the Israelites after they crossed the Jordan River. Joshua 4:4ff (NIV) “So Joshua called together twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe, and said to them ‘Go over before the Ark of the Lord your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each one of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you “What do these stones mean?” tell them that the flow of Jordan was cut off before the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord’.”
Have you forgotten something? Joshua made a stone memorial so the people wouldn’t lose their excitement. Have you forgotten something? If you haven’t, go to Worship Sunday with a godly gratitude and show it. You will be blessed in doing it.
“Forgive us, O Lord, for forgetting so many benefits of our faith in
You. Help us to realize our spiritual poverty without Your love. Amen”
Switch now to your local Church parking lot. Unsmiling faces heading toward the building because they are late. No high-fives here! No spontaneity! The walking seems slower. Where is the excitement? There seems to be more excitement exhibited about an event whose results will be forgotten in a week than there is about an event that will have a ripple effect all the way into Eternity.
Something has been lost. Where is the fire for God? Joshua feared this would happen to the Israelites after they crossed the Jordan River. Joshua 4:4ff (NIV) “So Joshua called together twelve men he had appointed from the Israelites, one from each tribe, and said to them ‘Go over before the Ark of the Lord your God into the middle of the Jordan. Each one of you is to take up a stone on his shoulder, according to the number of the tribes of the Israelites, to serve as a sign among you. In the future, when your children ask you “What do these stones mean?” tell them that the flow of Jordan was cut off before the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord’.”
Have you forgotten something? Joshua made a stone memorial so the people wouldn’t lose their excitement. Have you forgotten something? If you haven’t, go to Worship Sunday with a godly gratitude and show it. You will be blessed in doing it.
“Forgive us, O Lord, for forgetting so many benefits of our faith in
You. Help us to realize our spiritual poverty without Your love. Amen”
Thursday, April 26, 2007
April 27: ABOUT REMEMBERING
Those of us who are getting older get a lot of teasing about not being able to remember important things now, like where we left our glasses. It seems that the longer we live the more facts we have to pack in our brains and we begin to forget. A lot of things that all of us forget are so unimportant that it really doesn’t matter.
But the Bible commands us to “remember” so many important commands. I don’t think we have the freedom to “pick and choose” which ones we want to remember. To forget any of God’s commands carries deadly consequences. We are commanded to “remember the wonders God has done” (I Chronicles 16:12) and “remember your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1) and “remember the Law of Moses.” (Malachi 4:4)
While we are being commanded to remember, there is a much longer list of different people requesting the Lord to remember. The contrast is quite obvious.
We have God’s commands in the Bible, we are commanded to remember and we disobey. God, on the other hand, is requested by forgetting men to remember them and He always does because that is His nature. God never forgets to remember us.
Can’t we do better? Can’t we grow spiritually and become a little more responsible? David entreats us in Psalm 103:2 “forget not all His benefits.”
The hardest people for me to figure out are people who have been dramatically blessed by God and delivered from a terrible circumstance. They promise from the hospital bed or some other spot “Lord, I will never forget you, I will always be faithful to you. I will be the most faithful member of your church.” Then they forget to remember. Did that ever happen to you?
Are you remembering the right things today? Don’t forget to remember.
“With the thief on the cross we ask you to remember us, Dear Lord!
Create a new kind of memory in our hearts; we need it. Amen”
But the Bible commands us to “remember” so many important commands. I don’t think we have the freedom to “pick and choose” which ones we want to remember. To forget any of God’s commands carries deadly consequences. We are commanded to “remember the wonders God has done” (I Chronicles 16:12) and “remember your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1) and “remember the Law of Moses.” (Malachi 4:4)
While we are being commanded to remember, there is a much longer list of different people requesting the Lord to remember. The contrast is quite obvious.
We have God’s commands in the Bible, we are commanded to remember and we disobey. God, on the other hand, is requested by forgetting men to remember them and He always does because that is His nature. God never forgets to remember us.
Can’t we do better? Can’t we grow spiritually and become a little more responsible? David entreats us in Psalm 103:2 “forget not all His benefits.”
The hardest people for me to figure out are people who have been dramatically blessed by God and delivered from a terrible circumstance. They promise from the hospital bed or some other spot “Lord, I will never forget you, I will always be faithful to you. I will be the most faithful member of your church.” Then they forget to remember. Did that ever happen to you?
Are you remembering the right things today? Don’t forget to remember.
“With the thief on the cross we ask you to remember us, Dear Lord!
Create a new kind of memory in our hearts; we need it. Amen”
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
April 26: PRAYER OR IMAGINATION?
Popular new reports a renewed interest in prayer as related to healing. Cynics smile and say Christians have a vivid imagination to think that talking out loud to themselves is going to change sickness. Faithful believers keep on doing what they have always known to do: Take it to God.
Find any Church this week and they will introduce you to several members who were healed by prayer. Every week we pray for the sick, individually and cooperatively. We share stories of Doctors being amazed that “hopeless cases” are amazingly healed. In Jeremiah 33:3, we are challenged, “call to me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
When we pray, we link on to God’s willingness to share himself. It’s amazing how the media can magnify as unusual what true believers have experienced for a lifetime (personally since I was 9 years old). Hebrews 11:6 is plain, “without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
We have a solid foundation on which to build a prayer life. Practicing prayer gives us great confidence in God. We all started with small, simple, child-like requests and gradually grew bolder and bolder. God challenged us to pray more and more. “Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7) No wonder David says in Psalm 55:17 “evening, morning, and noon, I will cry out in distress and He hears my voice.”
You can learn to pray. It’s not a good-luck charm. Nor a Heavenly slot machine. One more invitation comes to you from Jesus: “until now you have not asked for anything in My Name.’ (John 16:24) Because of a gracious offer by Jesus, you can now pray “in His Name”. We now have a direct access to God in prayer.
“Loving Lord, how sweet it is to talk with You. Indeed, what a Friend
we have in Jesus! So good to take all to You! Amen”
Find any Church this week and they will introduce you to several members who were healed by prayer. Every week we pray for the sick, individually and cooperatively. We share stories of Doctors being amazed that “hopeless cases” are amazingly healed. In Jeremiah 33:3, we are challenged, “call to me and I will answer you and show you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
When we pray, we link on to God’s willingness to share himself. It’s amazing how the media can magnify as unusual what true believers have experienced for a lifetime (personally since I was 9 years old). Hebrews 11:6 is plain, “without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.”
We have a solid foundation on which to build a prayer life. Practicing prayer gives us great confidence in God. We all started with small, simple, child-like requests and gradually grew bolder and bolder. God challenged us to pray more and more. “Cast all your cares on Him for He cares for you.” (I Peter 5:7) No wonder David says in Psalm 55:17 “evening, morning, and noon, I will cry out in distress and He hears my voice.”
You can learn to pray. It’s not a good-luck charm. Nor a Heavenly slot machine. One more invitation comes to you from Jesus: “until now you have not asked for anything in My Name.’ (John 16:24) Because of a gracious offer by Jesus, you can now pray “in His Name”. We now have a direct access to God in prayer.
“Loving Lord, how sweet it is to talk with You. Indeed, what a Friend
we have in Jesus! So good to take all to You! Amen”
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
April 25: AN ENCOURAGING TRUTH
There are some beautiful passages in the Bible that describe the Lord’s presence with His people. They are the kind that give you the “warm fuzzies” if you are a believer.
Genesis 3:8 says “Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day”. Then in Exodus 33:11 “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend.” In John 1:14, the Bible says “the word became flesh and pitched his tent among us.” Technically, you call these anthropomorphic or the attributing of human behavior to the Divine. Nevertheless, they are filled with personal encouragement for the believer.
Generally, religions have to do with statues, idols, or pictures that can make no personal response. Religions often are based on a fear of an absentee Divinity that has great power to harm those who offend him or her.
One difference in a revealed religion like Christianity is that the Almighty has revealed himself as present and caring. For instance, in the earlier reference to John 1:14 is the truth that God is not “out there” but “here and now”. He is present and He is not silent!
The great story of the Exodus is that God’s Presence was always going before the people; the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. God’s presence was so necessary that even when the Israelites arrived near the Promised Land, they refused to go up and take possession unless they be assured that God would go with them. (Exodus 33:15)
The other side of this is that you can’t hide from God or evade Him. David asked, “Where can I run from your Presence?” (Psalm 139”7) That is a super serious consideration also for those who reject him.
Is this truth helpful to you or scary? What is most appealing to you; a God who is out there somewhere or a God who is in the now who wants to be your friend?
“Our hearts are strangely warmed when we consider the possibility of
having You live in our hearts. Thank You for this wonderful option. Amen”
Genesis 3:8 says “Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day”. Then in Exodus 33:11 “The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks with his friend.” In John 1:14, the Bible says “the word became flesh and pitched his tent among us.” Technically, you call these anthropomorphic or the attributing of human behavior to the Divine. Nevertheless, they are filled with personal encouragement for the believer.
Generally, religions have to do with statues, idols, or pictures that can make no personal response. Religions often are based on a fear of an absentee Divinity that has great power to harm those who offend him or her.
One difference in a revealed religion like Christianity is that the Almighty has revealed himself as present and caring. For instance, in the earlier reference to John 1:14 is the truth that God is not “out there” but “here and now”. He is present and He is not silent!
The great story of the Exodus is that God’s Presence was always going before the people; the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. God’s presence was so necessary that even when the Israelites arrived near the Promised Land, they refused to go up and take possession unless they be assured that God would go with them. (Exodus 33:15)
The other side of this is that you can’t hide from God or evade Him. David asked, “Where can I run from your Presence?” (Psalm 139”7) That is a super serious consideration also for those who reject him.
Is this truth helpful to you or scary? What is most appealing to you; a God who is out there somewhere or a God who is in the now who wants to be your friend?
“Our hearts are strangely warmed when we consider the possibility of
having You live in our hearts. Thank You for this wonderful option. Amen”
Monday, April 23, 2007
April 24: A BALM IN GILEAD
One of the most moving appeals for help and support in a time of crisis is found in Jeremiah 8:18-22. The emotional pain felt by the Prophet and his congregation immediately strikes a responsive note with us because of these ongoing tragedies.
“O my Comforter in sorrow, my heart is faint within me. Is the Lord not in Zion? Is her King no longer there? Since my people are crushed, I am crushed; I mourn and horror grips me. Is there no balm in Gilead? Why then is there no healing for my people?” Practically, Jeremiah asks, “If God is a God of Comfort, why am I not being comforted?” He goes on to lament that if his head were a spring of water and his eyes were fountains he would weep unceasingly for the “slain of my people”. Many of us identify with these emotions. We join the chorus of voices, “Is there no balm in Gilead?”
In the area of Gilead the people made a good living growing trees and herbs to make a soothing aromatic ointment or oil that was used for relief from several types of pain. Yes, there was balm that could be purchased for physical distress but only God can help a sickness of the heart.
Jeremiah’s heart was broken because of what was happening to his people but he could not help them.
When life suddenly thrusts us into a heart-breaking situation, we are caught between the two extremes of human helplessness and a God-given solution. We must make a choice between plunging on alone or reaching out to receive the balm that God offers. 2 Corinthians 1:3 says God comforts us in our trouble so we can comfort those in trouble with the comfort we have received.
“Tender and Loving God, we place our aching hearts in your hands for
the gift of healing. Amen”
“O my Comforter in sorrow, my heart is faint within me. Is the Lord not in Zion? Is her King no longer there? Since my people are crushed, I am crushed; I mourn and horror grips me. Is there no balm in Gilead? Why then is there no healing for my people?” Practically, Jeremiah asks, “If God is a God of Comfort, why am I not being comforted?” He goes on to lament that if his head were a spring of water and his eyes were fountains he would weep unceasingly for the “slain of my people”. Many of us identify with these emotions. We join the chorus of voices, “Is there no balm in Gilead?”
In the area of Gilead the people made a good living growing trees and herbs to make a soothing aromatic ointment or oil that was used for relief from several types of pain. Yes, there was balm that could be purchased for physical distress but only God can help a sickness of the heart.
Jeremiah’s heart was broken because of what was happening to his people but he could not help them.
When life suddenly thrusts us into a heart-breaking situation, we are caught between the two extremes of human helplessness and a God-given solution. We must make a choice between plunging on alone or reaching out to receive the balm that God offers. 2 Corinthians 1:3 says God comforts us in our trouble so we can comfort those in trouble with the comfort we have received.
“Tender and Loving God, we place our aching hearts in your hands for
the gift of healing. Amen”
Sunday, April 22, 2007
April 23: THE DANGER OF PROCRASTINATION
Have you heard the saying “today is tomorrow yesterday”? Have you heard “the road to Hell is paved with good intentions”? Or “I’m going to do something about that when I get around to it”? They are all reminders to us of the danger of procrastination. Putting things off is a dangerous habit. My own Mother put off going to the family doctor for a long time only to discover a rapidly growing cancer, too advanced to be stopped.
I grew up in a church where we would sing a song called “Why Do You Wait?” A closing verse of the song stated “There is danger and death in delay”. Life’s issues are too important to push aside for a more “convenient” time. In Acts 24:25 there is a powerful line. Paul has been discussing spiritual matters with Governor Felix and the Governor has become very fearful and anxious and told Paul “When I find a convenient time, I will send for you again.” We have no historical record of that meeting ever happening. Again, the tragic result of procrastination.
In your neighborhood there are people who “put off” for too long teaching their children morality, righteousness, and godliness only now to discover they have a juvenile delinquent in the home.
In the 1960’s, there was a song called “I Wish We Had All Been Ready”. It dealt with the suddenness and abruptness of the return of Christ to the earth and so many people being unprepared. Why? Procrastination.
Many people today are “almost persuaded” to commit their lives to serving Jesus but want to put it off to some unspecified date when things will be better. Regretfully, their procrastination will seal their fate on Judgement Day.
My friend, if you have read this far, understand II Corinthians 6:2 “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” Commit your life now. You are so blessed to know the truth that other folks have only dreamed about.
“Patient and Longsuffering God, You have invited us again and again to
come and fellowship and share life with You. Help me act now. Amen”
I grew up in a church where we would sing a song called “Why Do You Wait?” A closing verse of the song stated “There is danger and death in delay”. Life’s issues are too important to push aside for a more “convenient” time. In Acts 24:25 there is a powerful line. Paul has been discussing spiritual matters with Governor Felix and the Governor has become very fearful and anxious and told Paul “When I find a convenient time, I will send for you again.” We have no historical record of that meeting ever happening. Again, the tragic result of procrastination.
In your neighborhood there are people who “put off” for too long teaching their children morality, righteousness, and godliness only now to discover they have a juvenile delinquent in the home.
In the 1960’s, there was a song called “I Wish We Had All Been Ready”. It dealt with the suddenness and abruptness of the return of Christ to the earth and so many people being unprepared. Why? Procrastination.
Many people today are “almost persuaded” to commit their lives to serving Jesus but want to put it off to some unspecified date when things will be better. Regretfully, their procrastination will seal their fate on Judgement Day.
My friend, if you have read this far, understand II Corinthians 6:2 “Now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.” Commit your life now. You are so blessed to know the truth that other folks have only dreamed about.
“Patient and Longsuffering God, You have invited us again and again to
come and fellowship and share life with You. Help me act now. Amen”
Saturday, April 21, 2007
April 22: THE CHANGLESS CHRIST
I was born a part of what some sociologists called “The Silent Generation”. I lived through the Buster and the Boomer generations. I went through the Post Cold War. From my 70+ years I watch Generation X. The world is changing and changing. And I, as a Christian, am charged with the responsibility of teaching an unchanging message: “Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forevermore.” (Hebrews 13:8) How do I do that so the message doesn’t sound dated? Or old fashioned? Or irrelevant?
When the Israelites were in bondage in Babylon (Psalm 137:2) their captors requested that they sing their hymns of praise to God and they asked “how can we sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land”? So how do we present the changeless Christ in a changing world? We do it by personal relationship.
Paul explained his strategy in I Corinthians 9:19-22 “though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the Law I became like one under the Law (though I myself am not under the Law) so as to win those under the Law. To those not having the Law I became like one not having the Law (though I am not free from God’s Law but am under Christ’s law) so as to win those not having the Law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might win some.”
The numbers of people who are predisposed to the Gospel are shrinking. This generation doesn’t understand Biblical concepts. To this modern era they sound strange.
So, where to start? We must win them by building loving and caring relationship. They will know we are Christians by our love.
“Loving Father, there are so many loners and isolated people who
don’t connect with anyone. Help us build a bridge of love. Amen”
When the Israelites were in bondage in Babylon (Psalm 137:2) their captors requested that they sing their hymns of praise to God and they asked “how can we sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land”? So how do we present the changeless Christ in a changing world? We do it by personal relationship.
Paul explained his strategy in I Corinthians 9:19-22 “though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the Law I became like one under the Law (though I myself am not under the Law) so as to win those under the Law. To those not having the Law I became like one not having the Law (though I am not free from God’s Law but am under Christ’s law) so as to win those not having the Law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men, so that by all possible means I might win some.”
The numbers of people who are predisposed to the Gospel are shrinking. This generation doesn’t understand Biblical concepts. To this modern era they sound strange.
So, where to start? We must win them by building loving and caring relationship. They will know we are Christians by our love.
“Loving Father, there are so many loners and isolated people who
don’t connect with anyone. Help us build a bridge of love. Amen”
Friday, April 20, 2007
April 21: A HEART THAT IS PRESENT
Cultural religion may yet be the death of America. We continue to have polls that give positive reports about the state of religion in America but the day to day life of society doesn’t vindicate it. You and I know that drug use is up, divorce is up, crimes of violence are up; the actions don’t match the survey. A cultural religion is like that, a majority nod the head in assent but don’t act on the facts. So, in a society where there is a white majority, the cultural religions look a lot like a white social system.
Listen to the next political speaker you hear close his speech: “God bless you” or “God bless America”. It sounds like a pep rally! Does it mean we want God to bless us (Americans) and not bless “them” (all foreigners)? Cultural religion always believes that “we” are God’s “chosen” and God will take special care of “us”.
Thinking agnostics see through cultural religion as being empty of personal meaning and stay away from churches. In Isaiah 29:13 the Lord God says “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.”
It is easy to talk religious talk. Read the paper; most weddings and funerals are still conducted by ministers of religion. Many of these people don’t come near the church otherwise. Their comments about the Service often sound like they have attended a Broadway show. Cultural religion looks to be entertained, not challenged about an ungodly lifestyle.
Heart religion! Heart religion! That’s what God wants. Actions have always spoken louder than words. David prayed “Create in me a clean heart.” (Psalm 51:10) If the heart is right with God, the speech will validate that fact. The lifestyle will show loyalty to God and not a following after cultural gods.
“O God, that our lips and our lives would match daily. Save us from
talking more about religion than we are currently living. Help! Amen”
Listen to the next political speaker you hear close his speech: “God bless you” or “God bless America”. It sounds like a pep rally! Does it mean we want God to bless us (Americans) and not bless “them” (all foreigners)? Cultural religion always believes that “we” are God’s “chosen” and God will take special care of “us”.
Thinking agnostics see through cultural religion as being empty of personal meaning and stay away from churches. In Isaiah 29:13 the Lord God says “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.”
It is easy to talk religious talk. Read the paper; most weddings and funerals are still conducted by ministers of religion. Many of these people don’t come near the church otherwise. Their comments about the Service often sound like they have attended a Broadway show. Cultural religion looks to be entertained, not challenged about an ungodly lifestyle.
Heart religion! Heart religion! That’s what God wants. Actions have always spoken louder than words. David prayed “Create in me a clean heart.” (Psalm 51:10) If the heart is right with God, the speech will validate that fact. The lifestyle will show loyalty to God and not a following after cultural gods.
“O God, that our lips and our lives would match daily. Save us from
talking more about religion than we are currently living. Help! Amen”
Thursday, April 19, 2007
April 20: YOUR GOAL?
It’s important to have a goal in life, or a purpose, or a direction. Otherwise you would never know then you get there, right? This month in the spring is a very satisfying time for many people, many goals have focused on this month. There will be weddings this month as many achieve a goal of getting a husband or wife. Children will be born this month to couples who had the goal of becoming parents. Many will be obtaining their college degree as they reach a education goal. Some will get their first fulltime employment. Each one reaching a goal will have a sense of personal satisfaction.
To be pitied is the person who has no goal in life. They are continuously walking in circles, repeating the same wasted efforts and growing more bored by the day. Psychological counseling is often needed to break out of this aimlessness. The book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible talks about life without a goal. The writer even says “all of it is meaningless, a chasing after wind.” (Ecclesiastes 2:17) In chapter 12, the writer warns young people to discover God’s purpose early lest they end up with a meaningless life.
Jesus said to a group of fishermen “follow me and I will make you become fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17) A goal-oriented life has a single purpose and unifying direction. When Paul discovered God personally through Jesus he wrote in Galatians 6:14 “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.” In Philippians 3:14 Paul said “I press toward the goal to win the prize.”
I’m saying that each person needs a reason to get up every morning. There is a need to hear a “trumpet in the morning” calling you to a positive living of life and making a difference in your world. Regardless of age, social situation, or health limitations; life must have a purpose. Compare this to M.L. King saying “I have a dream”.
Congratulations to all of you who have reached a goal this month! I hope it has brought you great satisfaction. Now, what will you do with the rest of your life? Christians say “we make it our goal to please Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:9)
“Creator God, you had a dream for each of us when you created us.
Thank You! Through Your Spirit, help us to discover Your dream. Amen”
To be pitied is the person who has no goal in life. They are continuously walking in circles, repeating the same wasted efforts and growing more bored by the day. Psychological counseling is often needed to break out of this aimlessness. The book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible talks about life without a goal. The writer even says “all of it is meaningless, a chasing after wind.” (Ecclesiastes 2:17) In chapter 12, the writer warns young people to discover God’s purpose early lest they end up with a meaningless life.
Jesus said to a group of fishermen “follow me and I will make you become fishers of men.” (Mark 1:17) A goal-oriented life has a single purpose and unifying direction. When Paul discovered God personally through Jesus he wrote in Galatians 6:14 “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.” In Philippians 3:14 Paul said “I press toward the goal to win the prize.”
I’m saying that each person needs a reason to get up every morning. There is a need to hear a “trumpet in the morning” calling you to a positive living of life and making a difference in your world. Regardless of age, social situation, or health limitations; life must have a purpose. Compare this to M.L. King saying “I have a dream”.
Congratulations to all of you who have reached a goal this month! I hope it has brought you great satisfaction. Now, what will you do with the rest of your life? Christians say “we make it our goal to please Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:9)
“Creator God, you had a dream for each of us when you created us.
Thank You! Through Your Spirit, help us to discover Your dream. Amen”
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
April 19: THE JEALOUSY BUG
The ongoing battle with the jealousy bug shows no sign of letting up. It’s worse than the flu bug. There is no injection for this virus. Many are suffering because of it. There seems to be three distinct strains of the jealous virus.
The first is the jealousy of position. It has to do with titles and rankings. It’s onset usually coincides with an acquaintance receiving a promotion at work. Of course, everyone knows this person didn’t really deserve the promotion but got it by favoritism or trickery. If anyone deserved promotion, it was the afflicted person. A good antidote for this virus is Acts 10:34 (NIV) “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism.”
The second strain is the jealousy of place. Many times this virus attacks when a friend or relative buys a new house in a nicer subdivision or gets invited to join a certain club or even a church that caters to a certain “kind” of people. The “snobbery germ” has been detected in this virus but has not been completely isolated. You might try a quick dose of the medicine Jesus prescribed in Luke 3:14 (NIV) “Be content with your pay.” I know it is a tough pill to swallow.
The third strain is particularly dangerous. It is the dreadful jealousy of possessions. A new dress or television or car or any little material thing can bring a sudden onset of this virus. You need to disinfect your house for the “envy bug”. It multiplies rapidly. The Bible, however, does have a prescription. You may need spiritual help to take this medicine. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said ‘Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you’ (Hebrews 13:5 NIV) It is strong medicine. Do you want healing from the jealousy virus or not?
“God, you have blessed us all abundantly! Help us learn to be content
with our life situation and use it to help the less fortunate people. Amen”
The first is the jealousy of position. It has to do with titles and rankings. It’s onset usually coincides with an acquaintance receiving a promotion at work. Of course, everyone knows this person didn’t really deserve the promotion but got it by favoritism or trickery. If anyone deserved promotion, it was the afflicted person. A good antidote for this virus is Acts 10:34 (NIV) “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism.”
The second strain is the jealousy of place. Many times this virus attacks when a friend or relative buys a new house in a nicer subdivision or gets invited to join a certain club or even a church that caters to a certain “kind” of people. The “snobbery germ” has been detected in this virus but has not been completely isolated. You might try a quick dose of the medicine Jesus prescribed in Luke 3:14 (NIV) “Be content with your pay.” I know it is a tough pill to swallow.
The third strain is particularly dangerous. It is the dreadful jealousy of possessions. A new dress or television or car or any little material thing can bring a sudden onset of this virus. You need to disinfect your house for the “envy bug”. It multiplies rapidly. The Bible, however, does have a prescription. You may need spiritual help to take this medicine. “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said ‘Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you’ (Hebrews 13:5 NIV) It is strong medicine. Do you want healing from the jealousy virus or not?
“God, you have blessed us all abundantly! Help us learn to be content
with our life situation and use it to help the less fortunate people. Amen”
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
April 18: THE CURSE OF SPIRITUAL IGNORANCE
In reflecting back on the recent Easter Celebration (the Christian celebration of Jesus coming alive from the grave) many churches are trying to assess what happened. By many innovative presentations, churches were able to attract large numbers to their Services. But few have been able to count lasting results. The presentation of the truth of life after death made no lasting effect. Why? Because we live in a time in the western world where people have no Christian memory.
There are now third generations of families who have never gone into a church building, owned a Bible, or heard a positive Christian message. That’s why I began earlier by defining Easter. A like number of people are ignorant about Christmas. These are not atheists, or agnostics who have rejected the truth, this is the generation that is totally ignorant of the Bible. Called by some “Generation X” or the “lost generation” they are to be handled gently because of spiritual ignorance..
The resurrection of Jesus blows right by the person with no spiritual perception. God foretold this situation in Amos 8:11 (NIV) “the days are coming, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I will send a famine through the land, not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the word of the Lord.”
Churches are going to have to do more than concerts or conferences to confront current ignosticism. Faithful and caring sharing of the Word of God from the Bible can create a basis for response to the news of Jesus. Remember Paul’s words in Romans 10:17 (NIV) “faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of God”?
This ignostic generation will respond when the “ignorance barrier” is removed. “Now this is eternal Life: that they may know You, the Only true god, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3 NIV)
“Help us who know much about the Bible that we were not always as
smart as we are now. Help us to be walking Bibles, living the truth. Amen”
There are now third generations of families who have never gone into a church building, owned a Bible, or heard a positive Christian message. That’s why I began earlier by defining Easter. A like number of people are ignorant about Christmas. These are not atheists, or agnostics who have rejected the truth, this is the generation that is totally ignorant of the Bible. Called by some “Generation X” or the “lost generation” they are to be handled gently because of spiritual ignorance..
The resurrection of Jesus blows right by the person with no spiritual perception. God foretold this situation in Amos 8:11 (NIV) “the days are coming, declares the Sovereign Lord, when I will send a famine through the land, not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the word of the Lord.”
Churches are going to have to do more than concerts or conferences to confront current ignosticism. Faithful and caring sharing of the Word of God from the Bible can create a basis for response to the news of Jesus. Remember Paul’s words in Romans 10:17 (NIV) “faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of God”?
This ignostic generation will respond when the “ignorance barrier” is removed. “Now this is eternal Life: that they may know You, the Only true god, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” (John 17:3 NIV)
“Help us who know much about the Bible that we were not always as
smart as we are now. Help us to be walking Bibles, living the truth. Amen”
Monday, April 16, 2007
April 17: AT THE CORE, WHAT?
Something is dreadfully wrong at the heart of our country and I’m not talking about the Stock Market or the GNP. I’m talking about the record tonnage of marijuana being brought into this country from Afghanistan. I’m talking about record amounts of cocaine coming here from South America. I’m talking about record consumption of every kind of alcoholic drink that we distill. Clearly, there are many miserable people who can’t stand their miserable lives without something to kill the pain. Like ancient Rome, non-stop partying in a frantic desire to be happy describes us. Never mind the fact that we can’t build jails and mental hospitals fast enough to house the broken lives.
Do I sound like a Prophet of Doom? Or a Party Pooper? Or a Dr. Kill-joy? I don’t want to be, I just want to sound a realistic wake-up call! What is this great “escapism” all about? What is the reality that millions are trying to avoid? Is it God? In the “mannishness of man” spirit are we Americans trying to show God that we can make it on our own?
Hear Acts 17:30-31a “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent. For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed.” That’s our reality! Listen to Matthew 23:37 (NIV) “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, (substitute ‘America’) you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often have I longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.” Isn’t that a tender picture?
God offers the forgiveness of your sins and the fruit of that being a clear conscience so you don’t have to run from yourself. His grace will enable you to face life as a “real person”. You don’t need a depressant or a “downer” to make you “artificially happy” or able to relax around people. Quit using man-made crutches. Live abundantly! (John 10:10)
“Creator God, you know us inside and out. You know that man’s heart
was to be reserved for His creator as a place of peace and contentment. Amen”
Do I sound like a Prophet of Doom? Or a Party Pooper? Or a Dr. Kill-joy? I don’t want to be, I just want to sound a realistic wake-up call! What is this great “escapism” all about? What is the reality that millions are trying to avoid? Is it God? In the “mannishness of man” spirit are we Americans trying to show God that we can make it on our own?
Hear Acts 17:30-31a “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent. For He has set a day when He will judge the world with justice by the man He has appointed.” That’s our reality! Listen to Matthew 23:37 (NIV) “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, (substitute ‘America’) you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often have I longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.” Isn’t that a tender picture?
God offers the forgiveness of your sins and the fruit of that being a clear conscience so you don’t have to run from yourself. His grace will enable you to face life as a “real person”. You don’t need a depressant or a “downer” to make you “artificially happy” or able to relax around people. Quit using man-made crutches. Live abundantly! (John 10:10)
“Creator God, you know us inside and out. You know that man’s heart
was to be reserved for His creator as a place of peace and contentment. Amen”
Sunday, April 15, 2007
April 16: ON BEING A CHILD AGAIN
Children of the Bible are fascinating but ordinary people. By now we have almost taken their humanity from them and made them near perfect role models. Let us affirm the fact that they challenged us because they were “real”. If their “being real” is not taught to children today they may conclude that they are holy cartoon characters or fairy tales.
While children sometimes get bored with stories of the boy David or the boy Timothy and want to hear something “new”, the child in me never tires of the truths these characters learned in their childhood and the life-focus that it gave them.
The child in me still thrills as God calls the boy Samuel and he answers God immediately “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” (I Samuel 3:9 NIV) or the ministry that the boy David had to the tormented King Saul “Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul.” (1 Samuel 16:23 NIV) Consider the naïve youth Joseph dressed in the fancy clothes that his father gave him as he goes obediently for his father delivering the message (Genesis 37:23) that his jealous brothers cannot accept. It was the young girl Miriam faithfully guarding her little brother Moses (Exodus 2:4) who was the unique link in God’s chain of love to deliver the children of Israel. It was the young boy Mark watching the arrest of Jesus that had his life so deeply impacted by the event that he became a gospel writer. (Mark 13:51 NIV)
These characteristics of trust, openness, obeying, inquisitive, loving, following faithfully are exhibited by other children in the Bible. Maybe that’s why Jesus said about kids “of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 19:14 NIV) Wasn’t it great when you were child-like and had not yet become cynical? Have you lost your “inner child” of faith? Has the world crushed out your child-like faith? You need to reclaim it. Folks around you could more easily be blessed by your having a child-like spirit.
“Loving Father, the world doesn’t need more childishness but really
childlike people of faith could make a big difference. Make me a child again.
Amen”
While children sometimes get bored with stories of the boy David or the boy Timothy and want to hear something “new”, the child in me never tires of the truths these characters learned in their childhood and the life-focus that it gave them.
The child in me still thrills as God calls the boy Samuel and he answers God immediately “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” (I Samuel 3:9 NIV) or the ministry that the boy David had to the tormented King Saul “Whenever the spirit from God came upon Saul, David would take his harp and play. Then relief would come to Saul.” (1 Samuel 16:23 NIV) Consider the naïve youth Joseph dressed in the fancy clothes that his father gave him as he goes obediently for his father delivering the message (Genesis 37:23) that his jealous brothers cannot accept. It was the young girl Miriam faithfully guarding her little brother Moses (Exodus 2:4) who was the unique link in God’s chain of love to deliver the children of Israel. It was the young boy Mark watching the arrest of Jesus that had his life so deeply impacted by the event that he became a gospel writer. (Mark 13:51 NIV)
These characteristics of trust, openness, obeying, inquisitive, loving, following faithfully are exhibited by other children in the Bible. Maybe that’s why Jesus said about kids “of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.” (Matthew 19:14 NIV) Wasn’t it great when you were child-like and had not yet become cynical? Have you lost your “inner child” of faith? Has the world crushed out your child-like faith? You need to reclaim it. Folks around you could more easily be blessed by your having a child-like spirit.
“Loving Father, the world doesn’t need more childishness but really
childlike people of faith could make a big difference. Make me a child again.
Amen”
Saturday, April 14, 2007
April 15: GOD FORBIDS LYING
If there is a word that I am tired of hearing it is the word “lying”. Who lied and how much they lied has occupied the headlines. It is a lead story tonight on my computer. Yes, the Ten Commandments still forbid lying. Exodus 20:16 (NIV) “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.” Down with lying! “Little white lies” or even “fibs”; let us be people of truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. The transparent truth is demanded in every situation.
I have stood by the bed of terminally ill people and heard their families lie to them about surviving their sickness. The reason given is that the truth would be depressing. Not so! Jesus said “The truth will set you free.” (John 8:32 NIV) In the case of the dying, it would free families to resolve remaining family conflicts. In the case of the living, it would remove pretense in relationships, allowing each to take off his mask.
So much energy is expended in covering up lies. Christians should be examples of those committed to telling the truth. Christ is our example. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” (1 Peter 2:22 NIV) Think on this challenge from Ephesians 4:15 “Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
Growing in Christlikeness means growing in the truth. Imagine a reputation of being totally truthful. As a parent and pastor, I agree with the Apostle John in II John 1:2 (NIV) “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What a compliment!
Christians: tell the truth. It may hurt for a while, but it has the stuff of healing. If you lie, the temporary relief of the lie betrays that you have sown a cancer. If you believe that Jesus is the true Savior, don’t lie to your friend or your enemy. Its just wrong!
“O God, give us a hunger for truth. Make us sick every time a lie
lands on our tongue. Cleanse our minds and our mouths. Amen”
I have stood by the bed of terminally ill people and heard their families lie to them about surviving their sickness. The reason given is that the truth would be depressing. Not so! Jesus said “The truth will set you free.” (John 8:32 NIV) In the case of the dying, it would free families to resolve remaining family conflicts. In the case of the living, it would remove pretense in relationships, allowing each to take off his mask.
So much energy is expended in covering up lies. Christians should be examples of those committed to telling the truth. Christ is our example. “He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth.” (1 Peter 2:22 NIV) Think on this challenge from Ephesians 4:15 “Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the head, that is, Christ.”
Growing in Christlikeness means growing in the truth. Imagine a reputation of being totally truthful. As a parent and pastor, I agree with the Apostle John in II John 1:2 (NIV) “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” What a compliment!
Christians: tell the truth. It may hurt for a while, but it has the stuff of healing. If you lie, the temporary relief of the lie betrays that you have sown a cancer. If you believe that Jesus is the true Savior, don’t lie to your friend or your enemy. Its just wrong!
“O God, give us a hunger for truth. Make us sick every time a lie
lands on our tongue. Cleanse our minds and our mouths. Amen”
Friday, April 13, 2007
April 14: THE PERIL OF RUMORS
“And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the banks of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them.” (Joshua 22:11-12 NIV) They “heard” something! Because they “heard” something war almost began between brothers in faith.
Take a rumor, stir in ignorance, add a pinch of impetuousness and you have a bad situation about to erupt. Based on a rumor! At best their conclusion was based on a wild rumor. No one bothered to verify the facts, they just jumped to a conclusion.
Churches have been divided by rumors, careers have been destroyed by rumors. Someone throws a bit of dust in the air and some are sure that a hurricane is coming. Rumor and gossip kill friendships and spread a trail of misery in it’s wake. Shadows lengthen through families as rumors spread.
Stop passing on “stuff” that you have not verified. If you drop an inconsiderate or empty tale, you have no way of controlling the consequences. Somebody gets hurt. You do harm, of which you are not aware.
Hear the warning from the Bible: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4;29 NIV)
If someone approaches you with “have you heard about?” simply stop them immediately and tell them you are going to call the object of their “rumor” immediately so they can listen to it as well. That will stop most gossip.
The best antidote for poison rumoring is still Philippians 4:8 (NIV) “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable; if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.”
“Father God, set a guard at our lips to keep us from ever repeating a
‘have you heard?’ kind of statement. Give us a love for truth. Amen”
Take a rumor, stir in ignorance, add a pinch of impetuousness and you have a bad situation about to erupt. Based on a rumor! At best their conclusion was based on a wild rumor. No one bothered to verify the facts, they just jumped to a conclusion.
Churches have been divided by rumors, careers have been destroyed by rumors. Someone throws a bit of dust in the air and some are sure that a hurricane is coming. Rumor and gossip kill friendships and spread a trail of misery in it’s wake. Shadows lengthen through families as rumors spread.
Stop passing on “stuff” that you have not verified. If you drop an inconsiderate or empty tale, you have no way of controlling the consequences. Somebody gets hurt. You do harm, of which you are not aware.
Hear the warning from the Bible: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4;29 NIV)
If someone approaches you with “have you heard about?” simply stop them immediately and tell them you are going to call the object of their “rumor” immediately so they can listen to it as well. That will stop most gossip.
The best antidote for poison rumoring is still Philippians 4:8 (NIV) “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable; if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things.”
“Father God, set a guard at our lips to keep us from ever repeating a
‘have you heard?’ kind of statement. Give us a love for truth. Amen”
Thursday, April 12, 2007
April 13: WHAT ABOUT YOUR FACE?
A few weeks ago my wife passed me a note in Church that inquired: “why are you making that face?” I innocently replied “What face?” After the Service she explained that I was frowning as if I were mad. Actually, I had been pondering what I perceived to be confusion in American churches as to purpose. But, back to my facial expression. Our faces do tell on us. Sometimes, while preaching I observe individuals who are looking straight at me with eyes open but just a blank stare. You know, one of those “the light is on but nobody is home”.
We Christians need to be careful, we may be facially transmitting a message that is not too attractive. Some things makeup can’t hide. 1 Thessalonians 5: 22 (KJV) instructs “Abstain from all appearances of evil.” You may be appearing angry, disgusted, shocked, lustful, prejudiced, and the like that will drive people away from you when we Christians should be magnetizing folks. I think it was in this stream of thought that Jesus spoke in Matthew 12:34 (NIV) “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” What the real “you” is thinking escapes through your face. As the western song says “and the heart don’t lie”. James 1: 23-24 (NIV) warns us about seeing our own reflection in a mirror and doing nothing to change the reflection.
Did you ever listen to a Speaker and observe that his words and his expression weren’t the same? Words about love but spoken in an angry tone, for instance. Appearance matters and I’m not talking about clothing style. What kind of facial expression did Jesus usually have? The Bible is silent on that subject but since crowds followed Him wherever He went we can be sure He was winsome, tender, open, transparent, caring and non-judgemental when they looked at Him. How about your face?
“Lord, we know in our hearts that it is not a question of handsome or
pretty; we just need to have our hearts in tune with You. Amen”
We Christians need to be careful, we may be facially transmitting a message that is not too attractive. Some things makeup can’t hide. 1 Thessalonians 5: 22 (KJV) instructs “Abstain from all appearances of evil.” You may be appearing angry, disgusted, shocked, lustful, prejudiced, and the like that will drive people away from you when we Christians should be magnetizing folks. I think it was in this stream of thought that Jesus spoke in Matthew 12:34 (NIV) “For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.” What the real “you” is thinking escapes through your face. As the western song says “and the heart don’t lie”. James 1: 23-24 (NIV) warns us about seeing our own reflection in a mirror and doing nothing to change the reflection.
Did you ever listen to a Speaker and observe that his words and his expression weren’t the same? Words about love but spoken in an angry tone, for instance. Appearance matters and I’m not talking about clothing style. What kind of facial expression did Jesus usually have? The Bible is silent on that subject but since crowds followed Him wherever He went we can be sure He was winsome, tender, open, transparent, caring and non-judgemental when they looked at Him. How about your face?
“Lord, we know in our hearts that it is not a question of handsome or
pretty; we just need to have our hearts in tune with You. Amen”
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
April 12: LOOK AT YOUR KEYS
What is the significance of keys in your life? How many do you carry with you when you leave your home? How many people do you know who have a bigger key ring than you? Does that bother you?
A student of the Zen religion met a Christian missionary in his home country who carried a larger number of keys. He assumed this person was irreligious. Keys represent attachment. They seek to assure self-protection and self-enclosure. They create barriers, closing in and closing out. To this man of a pagan world view, Christians and keys are contradictory to the message of Jesus. Jesus never carried any keys. Since the primary purpose of keys is to secure and protect our “stuff”, Jesus didn’t need any because He didn’t even own a bed. (Matthew 8:20) Would be followers were turned away by His telling them they would no longer need their keys. “Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in Heaven. Then, come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21 NIV) Jesus certainly was nonchalant about owning a lot of stuff.
Do you drive a luxury car? Is your automobile a possession or transportation? Does your church parking lot resemble the Country Club parking lot? Every city and large town now has several “self-storage” businesses. People have so many possessions! We just add another key to our chain.
In Matthew 6:19-20 (NIV) Jesus speaks about the danger of trusting your key chain. “But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Don’t let your life be defined by your key ring. The so-called “safety deposit box” in the vault at your bank even requires that someone else (the bank) hold a duplicate of your “key”. So much for the security of that key.
Look closely at your key ring. It may be time for you to throw some away.
“God, why is it that we seek security in putting something under lock and key
or self-affirmation in impersonal things. We need you most of all! Amen”
A student of the Zen religion met a Christian missionary in his home country who carried a larger number of keys. He assumed this person was irreligious. Keys represent attachment. They seek to assure self-protection and self-enclosure. They create barriers, closing in and closing out. To this man of a pagan world view, Christians and keys are contradictory to the message of Jesus. Jesus never carried any keys. Since the primary purpose of keys is to secure and protect our “stuff”, Jesus didn’t need any because He didn’t even own a bed. (Matthew 8:20) Would be followers were turned away by His telling them they would no longer need their keys. “Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasures in Heaven. Then, come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21 NIV) Jesus certainly was nonchalant about owning a lot of stuff.
Do you drive a luxury car? Is your automobile a possession or transportation? Does your church parking lot resemble the Country Club parking lot? Every city and large town now has several “self-storage” businesses. People have so many possessions! We just add another key to our chain.
In Matthew 6:19-20 (NIV) Jesus speaks about the danger of trusting your key chain. “But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Don’t let your life be defined by your key ring. The so-called “safety deposit box” in the vault at your bank even requires that someone else (the bank) hold a duplicate of your “key”. So much for the security of that key.
Look closely at your key ring. It may be time for you to throw some away.
“God, why is it that we seek security in putting something under lock and key
or self-affirmation in impersonal things. We need you most of all! Amen”
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
April 11: THE UGLY BECOME BEAUTIFUL
The sleet had been heavy during the night. The ice was thick. At mid-morning the sun burst out and the temperature crept above freezing. My wife and I started driving across rural Virginia. It was beautiful! The trees seemed to be covered by veils of jewelry. Majestic trees and evergreen plants sparkled.
Then we noticed! Even the ugly had become beautiful. The weeds were shining. The briars were reflecting brilliance. Common field grass had a wonderful luster. It had been so easy to look up and see the expected beauty. It was a surprising revelation to see the common now clothed in beauty. What a great lesson from God! We expect to see God in “typical” miracle-working situations and sometimes miss the very obvious.
You may sometimes feel that you are so ordinary that God cannot make you especially attractive. God has promised us through His Messiah that He would “bestow on them a crown of beauty for ashes.” (Isaiah 61:3 NIV) God can take our ugliness and wrap it in His beautiful love. Look around you, you will meet some beautiful people when you least expect it.
Just as we had discounted the trashy grass along the road that God had chosen to make beautiful, no one expected that the prostitute Rahab could be used by God. Nor the young girl Mary. Nor the Christian-hater Saul. Nor the tax collector named Matthew. Until today God continues to make new beauty for the world. A man named Johnson Oatman Jr. once said “Jesus took my burden and left me with a song.” It is not as simplistic as the saying “the world gave me a lemon and God took it and made lemonade.” It is more personal as we come to God in faith, with nothing in our hands but ashes, and He makes something beautiful. As the Bible promises to those who will trust Him: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV)
“God, the front-page of the paper describes so much ugliness, our hearts long
for a taste of beauty. Help us to see Jesus today, wherever we go. Thanks! Amen”
Then we noticed! Even the ugly had become beautiful. The weeds were shining. The briars were reflecting brilliance. Common field grass had a wonderful luster. It had been so easy to look up and see the expected beauty. It was a surprising revelation to see the common now clothed in beauty. What a great lesson from God! We expect to see God in “typical” miracle-working situations and sometimes miss the very obvious.
You may sometimes feel that you are so ordinary that God cannot make you especially attractive. God has promised us through His Messiah that He would “bestow on them a crown of beauty for ashes.” (Isaiah 61:3 NIV) God can take our ugliness and wrap it in His beautiful love. Look around you, you will meet some beautiful people when you least expect it.
Just as we had discounted the trashy grass along the road that God had chosen to make beautiful, no one expected that the prostitute Rahab could be used by God. Nor the young girl Mary. Nor the Christian-hater Saul. Nor the tax collector named Matthew. Until today God continues to make new beauty for the world. A man named Johnson Oatman Jr. once said “Jesus took my burden and left me with a song.” It is not as simplistic as the saying “the world gave me a lemon and God took it and made lemonade.” It is more personal as we come to God in faith, with nothing in our hands but ashes, and He makes something beautiful. As the Bible promises to those who will trust Him: “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” (Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV)
“God, the front-page of the paper describes so much ugliness, our hearts long
for a taste of beauty. Help us to see Jesus today, wherever we go. Thanks! Amen”
Monday, April 9, 2007
April 10: THOMAS DID NOT TOUCH HIM
“ Seeing is believing” is the challenge we throw down when a friend makes a preposterous claim. We demand evidence that is touchable, or we discount it as another fish story of “the one that got away”. Our doubt is especially strong when it comes to spiritual things. There is a natural skepticism that we use to defend ourselves against deception. No one likes the shame that goes with being “fooled” or “deceived”.
So, it wasn’t unusual when Thomas didn’t believe his friends when they told him that the “buried” Jesus was now out of the grave and walking around. Was this a cruel joke? Were they disguising their own pain by playing a childish prank on him?
Well, he would have them know right now that he was not in the mood for this little game. “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it” (John 20:25 NIV) Well said, Thomas, don’t let anyone fool you.
A week later, Thomas is with his friends again, and Jesus shows up, too. He dares Thomas to touch Him and trust Him. Thomas falls on his face and confesses that Jesus is “My Lord and My God”. But the interesting thing is this; Thomas never touched Him. After demanding the undeniable proof of touching, he believed in Jesus without touching.
Faith does not need to touch. The truth is that “believing is seeing”. When you believe the truth about Jesus, you then can see Him in all His might and power changing people’s lives. Matters of the heart and spirit aren’t like the rest of life. The heart deals in faith, hope, trust, and love. These qualities and characteristics are experienced not by testing in a biology or chemistry lab but in the crucible of life Under fire! Faith under fire demands a verdict! Thomas did not touch Him but took the leap of faith belief.
“Thank You, God, that doubt and unbelief are not unforgivable sins but steps
on the way to a lasting relationship with You. You are so understanding! Amen”
So, it wasn’t unusual when Thomas didn’t believe his friends when they told him that the “buried” Jesus was now out of the grave and walking around. Was this a cruel joke? Were they disguising their own pain by playing a childish prank on him?
Well, he would have them know right now that he was not in the mood for this little game. “Unless I see the nail marks in His hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe it” (John 20:25 NIV) Well said, Thomas, don’t let anyone fool you.
A week later, Thomas is with his friends again, and Jesus shows up, too. He dares Thomas to touch Him and trust Him. Thomas falls on his face and confesses that Jesus is “My Lord and My God”. But the interesting thing is this; Thomas never touched Him. After demanding the undeniable proof of touching, he believed in Jesus without touching.
Faith does not need to touch. The truth is that “believing is seeing”. When you believe the truth about Jesus, you then can see Him in all His might and power changing people’s lives. Matters of the heart and spirit aren’t like the rest of life. The heart deals in faith, hope, trust, and love. These qualities and characteristics are experienced not by testing in a biology or chemistry lab but in the crucible of life Under fire! Faith under fire demands a verdict! Thomas did not touch Him but took the leap of faith belief.
“Thank You, God, that doubt and unbelief are not unforgivable sins but steps
on the way to a lasting relationship with You. You are so understanding! Amen”
Sunday, April 8, 2007
April 9: NOW THE REST OF THE STORY
Since we have just come through a very intense time of religious celebration, it is an appropriate time to ask: “Just how important is the Resurrection of Jesus from the dead?” Of all the facts about the life of Jesus, what is the greatest? His Virgin birth? His sinless life? His sacrificial death? His victorious ascension to heaven? The Bible says “we are saved by His life” (Romans 5:10), that is, the total Christ-event. The resurrection claims the unique spot. Interestingly, other religions claim one or more of the truths of Jesus for their founder. None claim a founder who came alive from the grave as Jesus himself prophesied. The bones of religious founders are preserved by their faithful. Jesus left an empty tomb.
If you can’t defeat your greatest enemy on his home field, what value is there in winning occasional battles? “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.” (I Corinthians 15:17-19 NIV) For many, Easter Sunday is a trip down memory lane. Getting dressed up, going to church, some even going back home to church can give you warm feelings.
This annual church-event is a little like a high school reunion, a “let’s-rally-around-the-flag” for good old Christian America and then a return to normalcy. Normalcy meaning life without the Lordship of Jesus! A kind of spiritual high but certainly nothing to change your life. Maybe a short jab from a guilty conscience?
The unique demands of a Risen Savior won’t be satisfied with a politician pleading for a return to “traditional values” as a ploy to get your vote. Even a somber “God Bless America” won’t impress One who has defeated death and is Lord of All Living Things. Today, you start writing the rest of the story. The changes in your attitude, language, family relationships, citizenship and the like will tell what impact was made on you.
“Jesus, some of us like the buzz we feel when we get high on You during
special religious celebrations. Reveal to us the need for action, not feelings. Amen”
If you can’t defeat your greatest enemy on his home field, what value is there in winning occasional battles? “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.” (I Corinthians 15:17-19 NIV) For many, Easter Sunday is a trip down memory lane. Getting dressed up, going to church, some even going back home to church can give you warm feelings.
This annual church-event is a little like a high school reunion, a “let’s-rally-around-the-flag” for good old Christian America and then a return to normalcy. Normalcy meaning life without the Lordship of Jesus! A kind of spiritual high but certainly nothing to change your life. Maybe a short jab from a guilty conscience?
The unique demands of a Risen Savior won’t be satisfied with a politician pleading for a return to “traditional values” as a ploy to get your vote. Even a somber “God Bless America” won’t impress One who has defeated death and is Lord of All Living Things. Today, you start writing the rest of the story. The changes in your attitude, language, family relationships, citizenship and the like will tell what impact was made on you.
“Jesus, some of us like the buzz we feel when we get high on You during
special religious celebrations. Reveal to us the need for action, not feelings. Amen”
Saturday, April 7, 2007
April 8: THE UNIQUENESS OF JESUS CHRIST
History has never recorded anything like it. Other people had died on a cross before Jesus. It becomes unique for individuals when the death of Jesus is accepted as a substitutionary death on behalf of the individual who is totally lacking in resources to remove the guilt of his sin.
But in the Resurrection of Jesus we face a totally “unique” event. Nothing like it before or since. Plenty of eyewitnesses to verify its truth. Of all the founders of all the religions of the world, Jesus only was resurrected from his grave. What does that say to you? Like the old fable of the anvil and the hammer, this story has been attacked and beaten on but, like the anvil, hasn’t changed a bit.
Truth won’t go away. If buried, it refuses to stay buried. It was the love of God that allowed Jesus to die on the cross as your substitute. It was the love of God that brought Jesus alive out of the grave to give you hope of Eternal Life. It is a unique event that demands a verdict of acceptance or rejection by you. “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised in life for our justification.” (Romans 4:25 NIV)
There is another unique event to come. When Jesus ate His last supper with His disciples, He told them to keep repeating that commemorative event until he came back. Since that time, Christians have repeated that event, looking forward to the unique event of Christ’s return.
Maybe some people don’t realize that Easter Sunday’s excitement isn’t just about looking back at a historical event but looking forward to the rest of the story. “For the Lord Himself will come down from Heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of god.” (I Thessalonians 4:16 NIV) The great salvation work of God on our behalf will be completed when Jesus returns to the earth. What a goal for History!
“Loving Redeemer, You have paid the price for every person in the
Universe to be born again in Your love. We praise You today! We
Glorify Your Name! Amen”
But in the Resurrection of Jesus we face a totally “unique” event. Nothing like it before or since. Plenty of eyewitnesses to verify its truth. Of all the founders of all the religions of the world, Jesus only was resurrected from his grave. What does that say to you? Like the old fable of the anvil and the hammer, this story has been attacked and beaten on but, like the anvil, hasn’t changed a bit.
Truth won’t go away. If buried, it refuses to stay buried. It was the love of God that allowed Jesus to die on the cross as your substitute. It was the love of God that brought Jesus alive out of the grave to give you hope of Eternal Life. It is a unique event that demands a verdict of acceptance or rejection by you. “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised in life for our justification.” (Romans 4:25 NIV)
There is another unique event to come. When Jesus ate His last supper with His disciples, He told them to keep repeating that commemorative event until he came back. Since that time, Christians have repeated that event, looking forward to the unique event of Christ’s return.
Maybe some people don’t realize that Easter Sunday’s excitement isn’t just about looking back at a historical event but looking forward to the rest of the story. “For the Lord Himself will come down from Heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of god.” (I Thessalonians 4:16 NIV) The great salvation work of God on our behalf will be completed when Jesus returns to the earth. What a goal for History!
“Loving Redeemer, You have paid the price for every person in the
Universe to be born again in Your love. We praise You today! We
Glorify Your Name! Amen”
Friday, April 6, 2007
April 7: EASTER IS A SPECIAL DAY
Special days are important to each of us. We love birthdays, anniversaries, especially with children and grandchildren. But the day above all days for the Christian is Resurrection Day (Easter Sunday). All of the great days of God’s self-revelation bow before this one. There is nothing to compare with it for uniqueness.
It is an amazing fact, still stopping people in their tracks. The world in general rolls on it’s self-absorbed way. But Christians everywhere breathe a grateful sigh of relief and release!
Crowds will flock to stadiums, concert halls, and arenas Sunday afternoon to be entertained for a couple of hours only to return to their dull, monotonous routines on Monday morning. But millions more in caves, warehouses, chapels and cathedrals, open fields and thick forests will gather to feed on the fact of the Living Jesus and go back to Monday morning’s obligation refreshed and renewed.
Around the world whenever the “JESUS” film is shown for the first time, viewers always cheer wildly when the crucified Jesus comes alive from the grave. Why should it be thought a hard thing for God to raise Jesus from the dead? Of course, those first eyewitnesses were shocked and amazed but that didn’t keep them from experiencing joyful-belief.
Hear again God’s appeal from Acts 17:30-31 (NIV) “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent. He has given proof of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.” “The Day That Was” gives way to “The Day That Will Be”. History’s single-most significant day has eternal ramifications. Some glad day, all who have been changed by the First Resurrection will celebrate together. What a day that will be! History is headed toward the biggest fulfillment yet!
“Victorious God and Living Redeemer, we love these unique days of
celebration on our calendar. Thank You for these highlight times. Amen”
It is an amazing fact, still stopping people in their tracks. The world in general rolls on it’s self-absorbed way. But Christians everywhere breathe a grateful sigh of relief and release!
Crowds will flock to stadiums, concert halls, and arenas Sunday afternoon to be entertained for a couple of hours only to return to their dull, monotonous routines on Monday morning. But millions more in caves, warehouses, chapels and cathedrals, open fields and thick forests will gather to feed on the fact of the Living Jesus and go back to Monday morning’s obligation refreshed and renewed.
Around the world whenever the “JESUS” film is shown for the first time, viewers always cheer wildly when the crucified Jesus comes alive from the grave. Why should it be thought a hard thing for God to raise Jesus from the dead? Of course, those first eyewitnesses were shocked and amazed but that didn’t keep them from experiencing joyful-belief.
Hear again God’s appeal from Acts 17:30-31 (NIV) “In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent. He has given proof of this to all men by raising Him from the dead.” “The Day That Was” gives way to “The Day That Will Be”. History’s single-most significant day has eternal ramifications. Some glad day, all who have been changed by the First Resurrection will celebrate together. What a day that will be! History is headed toward the biggest fulfillment yet!
“Victorious God and Living Redeemer, we love these unique days of
celebration on our calendar. Thank You for these highlight times. Amen”
Thursday, April 5, 2007
April 6: REACH FOR THE MIRACLE
It is a miracle, there is no other way to describe it. Christmas is often described by Christians as being a miracle but this is more. I totally believe in the Resurrection. I have never doubted it. I know that God is capable of doing miraculous things. As the Apostle Paul said to King Agrippa when he was on trial “why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?” (Acts 26:8 NIV) If God be God, why doubt the Resurrection?
It has been fascinating for me to meet many people who say they believe that God is real but do not believe in the Resurrection. If God is omnipotent (all powerful) nothing is beyond His capability. God would not be God if He were limited by our finite minds being able to understand all that He does. So we describe the resurrection of Jesus a miracle of God and stand in awe. And want to hold the miracle!
It is no wonder that John 20:17 relates how Mary held Jesus tightly outside the tomb until He told her “Don’t hold me so tight.” When you have grasped a miracle, you just never want to let go.
I can feel the nervous excitement of the disciples when Jesus appeared to them after His resurrection and showed them His hands and feet and they could not believe it “because of joy and amazement.” (John 24:4) It was too good to be true. Yet, it was true!
Standing face to face with a miracle can be a dangerous thing. It can set you free forever to believe that “all things are possible to him who believes in Jesus” (Mark 9:23) Or it can lock you into a kind of cynical fog that will enshroud your life in blandness.
Go for it this week. Reach for the miracle this weekend. Reach out to the Miracle Worker! Touch the Risen Jesus! Don’t miss out on this ripe opportunity!
“Lord God, cynicism and skepticism abound in our world, we have been
trapped for so long. Now we want to reach out to You by faith. Amen”
It has been fascinating for me to meet many people who say they believe that God is real but do not believe in the Resurrection. If God is omnipotent (all powerful) nothing is beyond His capability. God would not be God if He were limited by our finite minds being able to understand all that He does. So we describe the resurrection of Jesus a miracle of God and stand in awe. And want to hold the miracle!
It is no wonder that John 20:17 relates how Mary held Jesus tightly outside the tomb until He told her “Don’t hold me so tight.” When you have grasped a miracle, you just never want to let go.
I can feel the nervous excitement of the disciples when Jesus appeared to them after His resurrection and showed them His hands and feet and they could not believe it “because of joy and amazement.” (John 24:4) It was too good to be true. Yet, it was true!
Standing face to face with a miracle can be a dangerous thing. It can set you free forever to believe that “all things are possible to him who believes in Jesus” (Mark 9:23) Or it can lock you into a kind of cynical fog that will enshroud your life in blandness.
Go for it this week. Reach for the miracle this weekend. Reach out to the Miracle Worker! Touch the Risen Jesus! Don’t miss out on this ripe opportunity!
“Lord God, cynicism and skepticism abound in our world, we have been
trapped for so long. Now we want to reach out to You by faith. Amen”
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
April 5: SAY IT ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING
The intellectual enemies of Christianity have a big challenge this weekend. The “intelligent” view of Christians is to look with tender amusement on the “myth of the Resurrection”. According to this view, if Christians were a little smarter, they would know that they have been linked to an ancient form of nature worship by a very smart group of people called “Jesus and the Disciples”.
Since everyone can see the “rebirth” of nature every spring when all dead things become alive again, the disciples perpetrated this “absurd” idea that Jesus came back to life again just like birds, flowers, and such. The masses bought it; hence, the Christian view of the Resurrection of Jesus.
Of course, a few observable facts need to be considered. Crocus and daffodil blooming may bring a smile to your face but won’t change your life. Trees and grasses becoming green may give a sense of things being alive, but they can’t change your life. (In fact, there is a substantial increase in the number of suicides in the spring.) For all the vaunted power of spring, millions of lives will continue in their same boring rut of the ordinary.
But Easter Sunday is different! We celebrate the day when Jesus defeated death and said to all that life could change. We could really live, not just exist. We could experience victory over every enemy through Him.
This is not a season of the church, this is the heartbeat of the church. So, once more, with feeling, let’s say together 1 Corinthians 15:20-21 (NIV) “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.”
The simplest and most profound thing that you could do is stand up and shout “Hooray for Jesus!!!” Go ahead and enjoy the excitement of Resurrection.
“Father, we claim Your glorious truth of life after death because Jesus came
alive from the grave and now it seems like a spring is bubbling inside. Amen”
Since everyone can see the “rebirth” of nature every spring when all dead things become alive again, the disciples perpetrated this “absurd” idea that Jesus came back to life again just like birds, flowers, and such. The masses bought it; hence, the Christian view of the Resurrection of Jesus.
Of course, a few observable facts need to be considered. Crocus and daffodil blooming may bring a smile to your face but won’t change your life. Trees and grasses becoming green may give a sense of things being alive, but they can’t change your life. (In fact, there is a substantial increase in the number of suicides in the spring.) For all the vaunted power of spring, millions of lives will continue in their same boring rut of the ordinary.
But Easter Sunday is different! We celebrate the day when Jesus defeated death and said to all that life could change. We could really live, not just exist. We could experience victory over every enemy through Him.
This is not a season of the church, this is the heartbeat of the church. So, once more, with feeling, let’s say together 1 Corinthians 15:20-21 (NIV) “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.”
The simplest and most profound thing that you could do is stand up and shout “Hooray for Jesus!!!” Go ahead and enjoy the excitement of Resurrection.
“Father, we claim Your glorious truth of life after death because Jesus came
alive from the grave and now it seems like a spring is bubbling inside. Amen”
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
April 4: THERE IS HOPE
I may be wrong but the message I believe most people want to hear is “there is hope”. The psychiatric hospitals are filled with people who have no hope. The prisons are crowded with people who have no hope. War and strife-torn countries are populated with people who have no hope.
The truth of the matter is that most of the people you know are harassed with feelings of hopelessness. Hopeless that the marriage is going to last. Hopeless that the teenagers will ever settle down. Hopeless that the job situation is ever going to improve. On and on, I could go with this stream of thought. How do you explain the escapism of alcohol or recreational drug use? Folks just trying to escape feelings of hopelessness and dread. “Let us eat, drink, and party on; for tomorrow we die” is an expression of that hopelessness.
That’s why Easter is such a bright beacon in a dark world. It’s easy to grasp the Christian message of Easter: THERE IS HOPE! When Jesus came from the grave, a message of hope was released. Regardless of how bad your situation may be or how badly the world has treated you, there is hope. Because of Easter, there is escape from your bad situation so you can live in hope.
Hear 1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. (no hopeless situation) God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
I repeat, there is hope! God’s hope for you passes on a road that goes by Mount Calvary where Jesus was crucified for you and passes through the empty grave where Jesus was buried. He was dead. He is alive. There is hope. It is unique to Christianity.
“Because you came out of that grave, Living Lord, I was glad to get
up this morning and will be glad again tomorrow to wake with You. Amen”
The truth of the matter is that most of the people you know are harassed with feelings of hopelessness. Hopeless that the marriage is going to last. Hopeless that the teenagers will ever settle down. Hopeless that the job situation is ever going to improve. On and on, I could go with this stream of thought. How do you explain the escapism of alcohol or recreational drug use? Folks just trying to escape feelings of hopelessness and dread. “Let us eat, drink, and party on; for tomorrow we die” is an expression of that hopelessness.
That’s why Easter is such a bright beacon in a dark world. It’s easy to grasp the Christian message of Easter: THERE IS HOPE! When Jesus came from the grave, a message of hope was released. Regardless of how bad your situation may be or how badly the world has treated you, there is hope. Because of Easter, there is escape from your bad situation so you can live in hope.
Hear 1 Corinthians 10:13 “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. (no hopeless situation) God is faithful, and He will not let you be tempted beyond your strength, but with the temptation will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
I repeat, there is hope! God’s hope for you passes on a road that goes by Mount Calvary where Jesus was crucified for you and passes through the empty grave where Jesus was buried. He was dead. He is alive. There is hope. It is unique to Christianity.
“Because you came out of that grave, Living Lord, I was glad to get
up this morning and will be glad again tomorrow to wake with You. Amen”
Monday, April 2, 2007
April 3: EASTER WEEK AND THE RESSURECTION
In these coming days, you will be hearing more and thinking more about Easter and the Ressurection event. You will ponder the death of Jesus on Friday and suddenly realize this: Jesus could have said everything He had to say from the cross in five minutes, yet He stayed there for six hours. There must be a message in that for us that it took so long to give a short lesson that is still unclear for many people.
First, He said “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) Imagine, in this day of hurry-up death penalties, forgiving those who kill you. It would take a while to swallow that.
Then, He said “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise”. (Luke 23:43) Can you imagine? While suffering an unjust murder, taking time to forgive another sinner.
His third saying was a word of human care. Knowing that His earthly Mother had no other means of support; He said to John “Here is your Mother.” (John 19:27) Yes, earthly responsibilities given us by God are important and demand our responsibility.
Matthew 27:46 records the next words “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” What terrible words! It was at that specific moment that He took the sin and guilt of the world and became our substitute and paid an awful price for doing it.
The fifth saying is found in John 19:28 “I am thirsty”. Here we get the full impact of the human side of the God-man suffering for us.
The He said “It is finished.” (John 19:30) A triumphant shout to celebrate His victory over sin and Hell.
And the last thing He said was “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46)
He left the glory place for a gory place and His last words give us a basis for hope. Keep reading this week, it is your message of hope.
“Precious Saviour, it is good to know that we were on Your mind while you
were hanging on the cross. Please open our understanding more this week. Amen”
First, He said “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34) Imagine, in this day of hurry-up death penalties, forgiving those who kill you. It would take a while to swallow that.
Then, He said “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in Paradise”. (Luke 23:43) Can you imagine? While suffering an unjust murder, taking time to forgive another sinner.
His third saying was a word of human care. Knowing that His earthly Mother had no other means of support; He said to John “Here is your Mother.” (John 19:27) Yes, earthly responsibilities given us by God are important and demand our responsibility.
Matthew 27:46 records the next words “My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?” What terrible words! It was at that specific moment that He took the sin and guilt of the world and became our substitute and paid an awful price for doing it.
The fifth saying is found in John 19:28 “I am thirsty”. Here we get the full impact of the human side of the God-man suffering for us.
The He said “It is finished.” (John 19:30) A triumphant shout to celebrate His victory over sin and Hell.
And the last thing He said was “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46)
He left the glory place for a gory place and His last words give us a basis for hope. Keep reading this week, it is your message of hope.
“Precious Saviour, it is good to know that we were on Your mind while you
were hanging on the cross. Please open our understanding more this week. Amen”
Sunday, April 1, 2007
April 2: PLAY BALL
Thousands have been waiting all winter to hear the cry “Play Ball”. Some were so anxious they went south or west to see their favorite Major League team practice. Many still refer to baseball as the “national pastime”. I don’t know if that’s true or not but a lot of people are getting rich by being involved in this national pastime.
What do you think is our national pastime? A pastime is something that amuses or diverts our attention from the serious or difficult. On the other hand, baseball has been used as an example of spiritual responsibility. Each person has his turn at bat because each is accountable to God. “It is appointed for every person to die and after that comes judgement.” (Hebrews 9:27 NIV)
First base is being “born again”, experiencing a spiritual birth. Jesus said “You must be born again.” (John 3:3) First base is most important if you want to stay in the game with God.
Second base is baptism as a believer and becoming a member of the Body of Christ. Many would like to take a short-cut and go directly to baptism. Many take their children to be baptized, bypassing first base. All must remember: you can’t go to second base until you pass by first base, that’s the rule. Matthew 28:18 says “Make them disciples (first) and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost (second)
Third base is living the Christian life and sharing the good news with everyone you can as often as you can. “People will know you are my disciples when you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)
Leaving third base and going home is dying and going to Heaven to be with God. Hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord”, (Matthew 25:21) will signal the end of the ball game.
Anyone ready to “play ball” with God? Today would be a good day to join the game.
“Loving Father, the Game of life comes at us so quickly, sometimes while we
are busy with other games and interests. Thanks for inviting us to play. Amen”
What do you think is our national pastime? A pastime is something that amuses or diverts our attention from the serious or difficult. On the other hand, baseball has been used as an example of spiritual responsibility. Each person has his turn at bat because each is accountable to God. “It is appointed for every person to die and after that comes judgement.” (Hebrews 9:27 NIV)
First base is being “born again”, experiencing a spiritual birth. Jesus said “You must be born again.” (John 3:3) First base is most important if you want to stay in the game with God.
Second base is baptism as a believer and becoming a member of the Body of Christ. Many would like to take a short-cut and go directly to baptism. Many take their children to be baptized, bypassing first base. All must remember: you can’t go to second base until you pass by first base, that’s the rule. Matthew 28:18 says “Make them disciples (first) and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost (second)
Third base is living the Christian life and sharing the good news with everyone you can as often as you can. “People will know you are my disciples when you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)
Leaving third base and going home is dying and going to Heaven to be with God. Hearing “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord”, (Matthew 25:21) will signal the end of the ball game.
Anyone ready to “play ball” with God? Today would be a good day to join the game.
“Loving Father, the Game of life comes at us so quickly, sometimes while we
are busy with other games and interests. Thanks for inviting us to play. Amen”
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